Empire State Today

In a recent opinion piece published in the New York Post, Congressman Mike Lawler called for Governor Kathy Hochul to remove Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg from his position. According to Lawler, Bragg's approach to law enforcement has compromised public safety in New York City.

Lawler criticized Bragg for allegedly being lenient on criminals and illegal migrants while pursuing harsh prosecutions against individuals such as Good Samaritans and certain politicians. "Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s job is supposed to be keeping New Yorkers safe," Lawler stated. He accused Bragg of failing to prosecute offenses like fare-beating and resisting arrest, and of avoiding pre-trial detention, which he claims has led to repeat offenders re-offending frequently.

The congressman cited specific cases including Jose Alba, who defended himself during an attack at his workplace; Daniel Penny, a Marine veteran found innocent after intervening in a threatening situation; and former President Donald J. Trump, whom Bragg pursued with charges deemed questionable by various legal authorities.

Lawler concluded that Bragg's actions have exacerbated racial and political tensions without enhancing safety: "What did he not achieve? Making us all safer."